Imogene M King’s theory is: “Theory is an abstraction that implies prediction based in research. Theory without research and research without some theoretical basis will not build scientific knowledge for a discipline”. Can you explain what is she trying to imply on her theory? Minimum of 200 words in APA format with 2 references.
Imogene M. King, a renowned nurse theorist, emphasizes the significance of theory and research in building scientific knowledge for a discipline. In her theory, she asserts that theory and research should be interdependent and mutually supportive. King’s assertion implies that both theory and research are necessary for the development and advancement of nursing knowledge.
In King’s theory, she defines theory as an abstraction that involves making predictions based on research findings. According to King, a theory must have a solid foundation in research in order to be considered valid and reliable. This means that theoretical propositions should be supported and tested through scientific research. Without research, a theory lacks empirical evidence, making it merely a theoretical speculation that cannot contribute to the growth of knowledge.
Similarly, King argues that research needs a theoretical basis to guide its investigations and generate meaningful findings. Theory provides a framework within which research questions are formulated and methodologies are designed. It helps researchers identify the variables to study, the relationships between them, and the appropriate methods to measure them. Without a theoretical basis, research may lack direction and coherence, resulting in inconclusive or invalid findings.
By emphasizing the interdependence of theory and research, King identifies the symbiotic relationship between the two. Theory informs and guides research, while research enriches and validates theory. The findings from research studies can either support or challenge existing theories, leading to the refinement and expansion of theoretical frameworks. Similarly, theory provides a conceptual lens through which research findings are interpreted and integrated into the existing body of knowledge.
Moreover, King’s statement suggests that an interdisciplinary approach is essential for the development of scientific knowledge in any discipline, including nursing. By incorporating theory and research from multiple disciplines, nursing can benefit from diverse perspectives and methodologies. This interdisciplinary approach can enhance the comprehensiveness and applicability of nursing knowledge, ultimately leading to improved patient care and outcomes.
In summary, Imogene M. King emphasizes the importance of theory and research in building scientific knowledge for nursing. Her theory underscores the interdependence between theory and research, suggesting that theory without research and research without a theoretical basis are insufficient for the advancement of knowledge in the discipline. Her assertion highlights the need for empirical evidence to support theoretical propositions and the significance of theory in guiding research investigations and interpretation of findings. By integrating theory and research from diverse disciplines, nursing can develop a comprehensive and robust knowledge base.
References:
Fawcett, J., & Desanto-Madeya, S. (2012). Contemporary nursing knowledge: Analysis and evaluation of nursing models and theories. F.A. Davis.
King, I. M. (1971). Toward a theory for nursing: General concepts of human behavior. Wiley.